Welcome to Nahrain Fish & Chicken Grill
At Nahrain Fish & Chicken Grill, we embrace a rich culinary heritage rooted in Iraqi flavors. Nestled in El Cajon, our small yet welcoming restaurant offers an authentic oasis for seafood and grilled chicken lovers. Our signature dish, the traditional Masgoof, showcases the art of grilling whole fish in a clay oven, ensuring every bite bursts with freshness and exquisite seasoning. Diners rave about our warm hospitality, with attentive service that makes every visit memorable. With a variety of homemade dishes, from savory kubba Mousil to perfectly grilled kababs, Nahrain is dedicated to providing a genuine taste of Iraq—truly a gem worth savoring.
- 1183 E Main St Suite A, El Cajon, CA 92021, United States Hotline: +1 619-334-3222
Nestled in the heart of El Cajon, California, Nahrain Fish & Chicken Grill stands as a true gem for those seeking authentic Iraqi cuisine. Located at 1183 E Main St Suite A, El Cajon, CA 92021, this charming establishment is renowned for its fresh and flavorful offerings that highlight the rich culinary heritage of Iraq.
From the moment you step inside, the inviting atmosphere welcomes you with warmth and anticipation. Guests often rave about the outstanding customer service, which is attentive, friendly, and genuine. This intimate setting, with a modest occupancy of about 36, allows for a personal dining experience that makes every guest feel at home.
- Signature Dishes: Among the menu's highlights is the Iraqi Masgoof, a whole fish cooked to perfection in a traditional clay oven over logs, where each bite pays homage to its storied origins. Diners have praised its freshness and impeccable seasoning, making it a must-try.
- Grilled and Fried Selections: For those inclined to explore other options, Nahrain offers a variety of dishes, including the Mixed Grill Plate, showcasing beef kababs and tenderloin alongside delicious chicken breasts and beef liver.
- Comfort on a Plate: Delight in their Fish & Chips or Fillet Mignon Sandwich, both designed to satisfy, whether you’re in the mood for comfort food or gourmet flavors.
Frequent visitors laud the Assorted Fried Fish Tray, which showcases a delightful assortment of fried fish and shrimp—a feast for both the eyes and the palate. With a selection of homemade salads and appetizers to complement your meal, every dining experience at Nahrain is crafted to perfection.
The ambiance, combined with the delightful flavors, makes each visit memorable. Customers often remark on the cleanliness of the restaurant, adding to the overall sense of comfort. Whether you are stopping by for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, expect to indulge in dishes that are not only delicious but also made with care and dedication.
With great care put into every detail—from the cooking techniques to the service—you are guaranteed a dining experience that is not only authentic but also rich with flavor. Nahrain Fish & Chicken Grill is celebrated as a top destination for Iraqi cuisine, charming guests with each dish that arrives at the table. Reserve your spot and savor the unique culinary journey that awaits you!
For reservations or to place an order, feel free to call them at +1 619-334-3222.

My visit to Nahrain Fish & Chicken Grill was nothing short of exceptional. From the moment we arrived, the warm and inviting atmosphere made us feel right at home. The customer service was outstanding—attentive, friendly, and genuinely caring. The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly the Iraqi Masgoof , which was prepared to perfection. The fish was incredibly fresh, beautifully seasoned, and cooked just right. Each bite was a delight, showcasing authentic flavors that transported us to Iraq. I can't recommend Nahrain Fish & Chicken Grill highly enough for anyone looking to enjoy delicious Iraqi cuisine in a welcoming environment. It's truly a gem worth visiting again and again.

Beautifully prepared meals. Feel at ease because everything seems so clean. 110% worth the wait, because everything is prepared fresh to order.

Nahrain is a small (36 occupancy) restaurant nestled at the corner of a strip mall, next to a Mediterranean bakery. A glass counter greets my eyes, boasting the whole fish that may soon be on my plate. The owner handed us some menus with a friendly smile as he waited on other customers. Minutes later, our table was filled with a huge, hot Naan and a delicious plate of hummus. I chose the Stripped Bass, nodding my approval as he plucked a 2.17 pound fish from the case. My date chose the 4-piece fried chicken. Long story short, everything was perfectly done: The food delicious, service well executed and an almost private family atmosphere. They do not serve alcohol, so a 7Up washed it all down soberly. Note: If you order fish by the pound, expect to buy a fish ;) Well worth a stop for Iraqi food done well!

A simple and small Iraqi restaurant. Excellent service and the best place for grilled fish.

Amazing coastal and marine variety fish, grilled on old school logs and fried depending on the fish and dish. Delicious and authentic sides as well. The prices are very fair.

Great place for authentic Iraqi maskoof. Prices very reasonable. Amazing service. I recommend calling in advance for maskoof as maskoof fish takes time to grill.

Very nice Iraqi fish. Unique place. Have to try it out. It is the tastiest fish you can get in the west of the Mississippi. And possibly east of it if you are looking for the Iraqi style fish. There is competition on fish in Jersey city, though but not Iraqi style.

The restaurant seems from the first look normal or low quality and cleanliness. But to be honest it has the best Iraqi way fish which they called MASGOOF. We had the best lunch today and the owner he is an old man recommended us ALQATAN fish a big one like 10 bounds fish and cooked it with the Iraqi way. It’s amazing, very delicious and juicy. The taste will never come out from my mouth